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Virat Kohli, one of the most celebrated batsmen in the world, has recently seen a decline in his batting average, dropping from the mid-50s to 48.13. This downturn, according to former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, is largely attributable to a persistent weakness outside the off-stump, coupled with Kohli's reluctance to adapt his technique. Manjrekar's assessment highlights a key point in the ongoing discussion surrounding Kohli's recent performances, focusing on the interplay between inherent weaknesses and a player's willingness to evolve their approach. The narrative is further complicated by the high expectations placed upon Kohli, a player known for his exceptional consistency and ability to deliver under pressure. His recent struggles, therefore, are magnified by his previous achievements and the constant scrutiny he faces from both fans and critics alike.
Kohli's dismissal for a meager 7 runs on Day 1 of the second Test match against Australia in Adelaide serves as a prime example of this vulnerability. Faced with a length ball from Mitchell Starc that moved away sharply from the off-stump, Kohli looked tentative and ultimately deflected the ball to slip. This dismissal underscores the fragility of his approach when confronted with deliveries outside off, a weakness that has been repeatedly exploited by opposing bowlers. While individual dismissals can be attributed to various factors – including luck, unpredictable ball movement, and the opponent's skill – the recurring nature of Kohli's struggle against deliveries outside off suggests a deeper, more systemic issue. The consistency with which he falls prey to this type of delivery points to a technical flaw that needs addressing.
The analysis provided by Manjrekar emphasizes not just the technical weakness, but also Kohli's apparent unwillingness to modify his approach. This 'adamancy,' as Manjrekar termed it, may stem from a variety of factors. It could be a matter of ingrained habits, a reluctance to change a tried and tested technique, or perhaps even a stubborn belief in his own ability to overcome this weakness through sheer talent alone. Whatever the reason, this unwillingness to adapt has arguably hindered his progress and contributed significantly to his declining average. The question then becomes whether Kohli will be able to overcome this mental hurdle and adjust his technique to effectively counter this persistent weakness. The pressure is on, not only to regain his previous form but also to demonstrate a willingness to evolve his game and adapt to the challenges presented by modern bowling.
The comparison between Kohli's current form and his past performances further illuminates the significance of this issue. In recent years, Kohli's average had consistently hovered around the mid-50s, a testament to his exceptional skill and consistency. However, a noticeable dip in form, particularly a lean run of 93 runs across three matches against New Zealand at an average of 15.50, highlighted the growing vulnerability. The Australia series, therefore, becomes a crucial test of his ability to overcome this slump. His hundred in Perth offered a glimmer of hope, proving that he still possesses the talent to produce exceptional innings. However, the Adelaide dismissal raises concerns about whether this was a temporary resurgence or a sign of deeper underlying issues.
The discussion surrounding Kohli's batting average extends beyond mere statistics. It touches upon the psychological aspect of elite sports, the pressure of maintaining high standards, and the constant adaptation required to thrive at the highest level. Kohli's case serves as a valuable lesson, reminding us that even the most accomplished athletes face periods of struggle and the need for continuous self-evaluation and adjustment. His ability to overcome this challenge will not only impact his personal success but also the performance of the Indian cricket team, given his crucial role in the squad. Therefore, the focus should not solely be on his average, but on his approach to overcoming the weakness and regaining his confidence and composure at the crease.
Source: Weakness outside off and adamance led to Virat Kohli's average slipping to 48, says Sanjay Manjekar